Commissioner Josh Morse of Newton’s Public Buildings Department briefed the committee on an array of large capital projects, the department’s lessons‑learned program and operating‑budget changes tied to upcoming openings.

"Newton finds itself in the busiest period of municipal building construction since the response to the baby boom," Morse told the Public Facilities Committee, summarizing progress on multiple school and community projects and thanking staff, councilors and community volunteers for extended involvement.

Morse said the Lincoln‑Elliott project was in its final stages, with substantial completion expected in early June; the Cooper Center was on track to open this fall, with interior finishes, furniture and technology procurement underway. The Countryside School project has mobilized and will proceed as a site‑occupied construction program, with geothermal well drilling slated for the summer and an anticipated move‑in in February 2027. Horace Mann and Franklin projects were also advancing: Horace Mann construction had started on-site and was scheduled to finish before the 2026‑27 school year; Franklin was near 90% construction documents and expected to bid over the summer for a fall 2025 start.

Morse highlighted several budget items tied to operations: the Cooper Center will require two custodial positions and an overtime line for events; water and sewer costs paid by Public Buildings for Newton Public Schools total $786,500 in the department’s proposal, Morse said. He also noted staffing and organizational transitions, including a co‑director of sustainability position and discussion about a possible independent sustainability department.

Councilors asked about neighborhood impacts and communications. Morse said the department has expanded outreach, including social media, video updates and certified mail at critical project points, and that he uses a published "lessons learned" document to guide design teams. Councilor Greenberg and others praised the department for communication and neighbor engagement around the Cooper Center work.

The committee took a voice vote on the public buildings budget and capital improvement plan items presented; the chair recorded the motions as approved by members present. Morse said the department will mobilize investigative and construction teams as soon as the City Council authorizes funds for specific projects.